Wine refrigerators: how to choose a wine cooler + the best models and manufacturers

Recently, in addition to conventional types of household appliances, specialized options have also gained popularity. Such devices include a refrigerator for wine - a compact unit that simulates the conditions of wine cellars, which makes it possible to fully enjoy the taste and aroma of a noble drink.

Thinking about buying a wine cabinet, but having trouble choosing the right equipment? In order not to be disappointed in the acquisition, it is necessary to determine in advance the main parameters of the refrigerator, evaluate the features of different types of equipment. Our article is devoted to the solution of these issues.

We have described in detail the variety of product positions of wine cabinets on the market and outlined the main criteria for their selection. In addition, we gave an overview of the best manufacturers of cooling units, as well as prepared a rating of the most popular models of specialized refrigerators.

Appointment and application of wine racks

Refrigerators of this type simultaneously perform a number of functions necessary for the proper storage of bottles. First of all, they are used to cool drinks.

In addition to the tasks of cooling wine and drinks, a wine cooler performs important work - it maintains a stable temperature background, which is required to maintain quality characteristics

The operating mode may be different: for long-term storage of containers in the chamber, it is recommended to maintain a temperature of 10-12 ° C.If the wine is planned to be served on the table, it is kept in the range from 8 ° C to 16 ° C, depending on the brand.

In the refrigerator, conditions for horizontal storage are created. This is especially important when using wooden corks: when wet, they become airtight and do not allow air to pass through, which spoils the contents.

Vessels with plastic plugs are not so demanding: they can be placed vertically.

Many models of wine cabinets have a luxurious design, so they can be installed not only in office premises, but also in the living room

An important function is protection against UV radiation, which accelerates chemical processes, causing damage to the wine. To prevent the penetration of aggressive rays, wine cabinets usually provide opaque doors or tinted glass windows that are impervious to ultraviolet radiation.

The design features of the technique also make it possible to protect the bottles from vibration, due to which precipitation may increase in them. This option is especially relevant if you plan to store drinks for a long period.

When choosing a refrigerator, a number of factors are taken into account, including technical specifications, installation features, dimensions and other criteria.

The refrigerator is equipped with shelves providing the most favorable horizontal position for storing wine bottles. The bottles are firmly fixed in it, which eliminates accidental damage and damage.

Classification by installation type

All household appliances designed to store wine can be divided into three groups that characterize the installation option.

Freestanding refrigeration units

Models are located autonomously at some distance from other furniture and appliances. The cooling system in this case can be located on the side surfaces or at the rear wall.

In the first case, the device looks more advantageous, however, a possible leak can hopelessly spoil it, since repair in such a situation is difficult and sometimes impossible.

A free-standing refrigerator can be originally decorated, for example, made in the form of a wine barrel - an interesting design solution

A simple and less expensive solution is a device with a radiator at the rear panel. Since this node is quite vulnerable, special care must be taken during transportation.

Embedded Hardware Models

Built-in modifications are in high demand, despite the higher cost. Among the assortment are compact products that can be placed under the countertop, as well as dimensional ones that allow you to store hundreds of bottles.

Built-in appliances for storing wine there is a place in any kitchen. The refrigerator can be placed both in the traditional way, and on the originally designed "island"

Typically, cabinets of this type are equipped with grilles at the bottom, behind which there are cooling radiators and fans for even distribution of air flows. The most expensive options also have a system for heat dissipation.

Showcases for bottle storage

Compact fixtures designed for wall mounting. Due to the minimal depth and small parameters of the mounting plate, they can be conveniently arranged even in a limited space.

There are two types of display cases:

• neutral - the design does not provide nodes responsible for lowering the temperature;
• cooled - equipped with a silent ventilated freezing system, as well as the option of automatic defrosting.

The first option is used for decorative and presentation purposes, the second is perfect even for long-term storage of a small collection of bottles.

Oversized wine racks are bought not only for restaurants and shops. They are installed in hotels, holiday homes and private estates.

Used cooling technologies

To cool drinks, various methods of lowering the temperature can be used, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Absorption system

It is based on chemical reactions, accompanied by the release / absorption of heat.

Since moving mechanical parts are not involved in this case, the device works without noise and vibration. If necessary, it can be installed even in a bedroom.

Wine racks can be used to store soft drinks and even ordinary products. All supplies must be well secured in vacuum packaging to prevent odors

The disadvantages of such models include significant electricity consumption and high cost. In addition, due to the use of ammonia and other unsafe elements in the system, the technique requires increased attention.

Compressor technology

To date, the most common system used in wine racks. Instrument operation refrigerator operation traditional type. The gas is compressed by the compressor to produce heat, and then expands again, absorbing thermal energy.

Compressors can be used both in built-in and in stand-alone appliances. Despite the economical use of energy consumption, they perfectly maintain the set temperature.

Among the minuses, some noise can be noted, the level of which is indicated in the instructions attached to the model. Before buying, you should carefully check the tightness of the device and the quality of the compressor, since these factors directly affect the service life.

Most household wine coolers are equipped with compressors. This is the most economical option, although somewhat noisier

Thermoelectric or electronic system

Devices using this technology belong to the most budgetary group of goods. To lower the temperature, Peltier elements are used in them - plates, which, when voltage is applied to them, are heated on one side and cooled on the other.

Refrigerators of this type have a number of valuable advantages: small size, lack of vibration, affordable cost.

Since units with an electronic system respond quickly to outside temperatures, it is not recommended to place them in a sunny place or near batteries

The main disadvantage of such models is the inability to embed. In addition, the design of the equipment, as a rule, involves the presence of a fan, the functioning of which is associated with a certain noise. Its level is especially high for inexpensive modifications, while the work of elite options proceeds almost silently.

Dimensions, design and additional features

Different wine cooler models may include additional equipment and / or functions.

Useful options:

• display;
• remote control;
• air circulation system;
• management of cooling zones;
• heating option;
• humidity control;
• locks and accessories.

A digital screen is often installed on the front wall of the cabinet, informing about the temperature and humidity of the camera. Usually there are mechanical or touch buttons for setting.

Some versions provide remote control. In this case, the remote control is included in the kit, with the help of which the device is regulated.

In wine racks, shelves made of natural wood are often installed. They not only differ in aesthetic appearance, but also help to dampen the vibration that accompanies the operation of some devices

Specialized refrigerators can have a different number of temperature zones. Two-zone devices are especially popular because they support ideal conditions for storing two types of drinks.

They provide a plot for white wines and champagne with a temperature of 6 ° C, as well as a compartment for saturated red wines at 16-18 ° C. It is important to consider that the presence of an additional cooling department reduces the internal space and significantly increases the cost of the model.

A wine cooler with electronic control allows you to choose the most suitable cooling mode for red, white and sparkling wines, taking into account their individual qualities

A simpler design have multi-zone devices. They are characterized by a single space in which a vertical change in temperature is provided: below it is lower than above. The scatter in such options is usually 3-6 ° C.

For faster and more uniform cooling, a fan is sometimes installed in the cooking chamber. By definition, it is not available in multi-zone refrigerators where temperature differences are important.

Most wine racks are for cooling only. However, there are modifications equipped with a heating function - “winter mode”. Such devices can be safely left in unheated rooms, for example, in a country house or in a pantry.

To maintain the level of humidity in a number of modifications, the use of lava stones is assumed. Their porous structure easily absorbs condensate, maintaining it for a long time.

In budget options, a constant content of water vapor is automatically maintained, the indicator of which varies in the range of 50-80%. Expensive units are usually equipped with special systems that allow you to independently set the degree of humidity.

In addition to the above factors, in wine coolers may be provided with additional devices and accessories, such as locks that prevent unauthorized access, UV protection screen, charcoal filters, lava stones.

As for the dimensions, here manufacturers offer a variety of parameters. Devices for private owners, designed to store several dozen bottles, are usually quite modest in size.

Industrial units for bars and other establishments have impressive dimensions, which allows you to store lots of various drinks in them.

The volume of the device for storing wine is measured in standard Bordeaux bottles with a capacity of 0.75 liters. The largest unit holds 500 pieces of wine bottles

Since wine storage units are luxury goods, manufacturers pay special attention to the design of models.

For their manufacture, metal, wood, tinted and mirror glass are used. Often devices are decorated with carvings, forged elements, leather, mosaics, which gives them a luxurious appearance.

The smallest wine cooler is designed for just one bottle. Its task is to cool the contents for dinner.

Overview of the best manufacturers

Among the largest companies that produce refrigeration equipment for storing wine, it is worth highlighting the five obvious favorites.

Wine Racks EuroCave

The famous French company, the founder of which Rene Marten proposed the concept of special devices that simulate the conditions of wine cellars, and arranged for their release.

Currently in the catalog EuroCave more than five hundred models of household appliances are presented, the assembly of which is carried out in the town of Furmey, located in the north of France, the brand's historical homeland.

All product lines presented in the catalogs by the French company EuroCave have an impeccable taste, high build quality and excellent technical characteristics.

Most of the proposed options relate to multi-zone cabinets, the temperature of which varies uniformly in height from 7 to 20 ° C, which allows you to simultaneously store champagne, white, pink, red wines on shelves.

The collections offer free-standing and built-in appliances, made primarily in a classic design.

Wine storage devices from Dometic

The Swedish company is a well-known manufacturer of wine cabinets. The company has developed and patented absorption cooling technology.

Due to the lack of noise and vibration, it has become widespread for long-term storage of various brands of noble drinks.

An interesting wine cooler from Domestic is equipped with a pull-out section and convenient cells that make it possible to stack bottles up and down. Glass does not transmit UV rays and fluorescent lamps

Household appliances from Domestic distinguished by high qualities. It is characterized by effective protection against UV radiation, excellent air circulation, reliable maintenance of temperature and humidity.

Democratic equipment from Caso

Brand Made Devices Caso (Germany), found recognition among different categories of users. The assortment of the company includes models at affordable prices, which are quite accessible to the middle class.

Some models of beverage refrigerators are equipped with additional drawers or other containers that are commonly used to store accessories

All Caso lines are characterized by traditional German quality, ease of operation, and long life. Excellent design in a classic style makes it easy to fit equipment into any interior, and a variety of dimensions make it possible to use it both in everyday life, and in bars, cafes, restaurants.

Dunavox Wine Racks

Despite the relative youth, the Hungarian company Dunavox managed to attract the attention of connoisseurs and collectors of vintage drinks thanks to a wide range of conventional and built-in models.

The device for storing wine Dunavox DAT-6.16C has a bright LED backlight, for which a special button on the panel is designed. Thanks to saturated lights, a functional appliance becomes an unforgettable element of decor

The company's products are characterized by the perfect combination of budget price and excellent technical characteristics. The high quality of the refrigerators is also confirmed by the three-year warranty period provided by the company.

Design Technique Ip Industrie

Since the appearance of the product plays an important role in choosing wine storage devices, it is necessary to mention the Italian company Ip industriesrie. Its original and beautiful products are in great demand in different countries of the world.

In the manufacture of elite models, only natural materials are used, for example, leather and wood of various species. Designers offer bright, bold solutions, making the Ip Industie technology the center of the interior.

IP Industrie's unusual offerings include wine display cases in the form of paintings used to decorate a room

Exquisite design is combined with excellent performance: modern technologies and scientific developments of scientists are widely used in the manufacture of products.

Excellent quality also distinguishes options from well-known German manufacturers Libherr and MieleFrench professional line La sommeliere, products of a Chinese manufacturer Cold vine.

Rating of the best wine racks on the market

Experts advise to pay attention to the best models from eminent manufacturers in the field of cooling equipment.

Place # 1 - Liebherr UWKes1752

The refrigeration equipment of a German company is famous for its durability, reliability, and ease of use. All these properties are also characteristic of the UWKes1752GrandCru wine cabinet, which is mounted under the countertop.

The total volume of the Liebherr UWKes1752 is 110 liters. There are four shelves in the inner compartment; three of them extend on telescopic rods.

All metal made are covered with a special composition Smartsteel. It helps increase the surface's resistance to mechanical damage and facilitates cleaning.

Temperature parameters are set on a control panel equipped with a display Magicye. Intelligent Regulation allows you to save the selected parameters regardless of the ambient temperature. For optimal air quality, an activated carbon filter is used.

The compartment is illuminated using LEDs with minimal heating, so that the included lamps can be left for a long time without causing the slightest harm to the drinks.

Place # 2 - Climadiff Dopiovino / 1

Compact model for different types of wine. She provides two zones with autonomous coolingwhere you can simultaneously store 21 bottles.

The work is carried out on the basis of the Peltier principle, which guarantees soundless operation and reliable temperature setting. Each Climadiff Dopiovino / 1 compartment has autonomous control with touch buttons. They respond easily to touch and do not lose sensitivity over time.

The device is different graceful appearance: the metal case is complemented by a tempered glass door with a mirror effect, which provides reliable protection against ultraviolet radiation.

In the upper compartment of the refrigerator, two are installed, and in the lower - four shelves made of natural wood. If necessary, they can be easily removed for cleaning and washing.

The product is equipped with four adjustable legs, which allows you to install it even on an uneven surface. The kit includes removable handles, which are optionally connected to the facade.

Place # 3 - Caso WineDuett 12

This spectacular compact modelmade of metal, there is always a place in the kitchen, in the dining room or other room. The dark cabinet and glass door give a special grace to the cabinet.

The refrigerator has one compartment, divided into two working zones, each of which has a special temperature range. Settings are made using mechanical buttons installed on the panel. The capacity of the chamber, divided by four strong wooden shelves, is 12 standard bottles.

Caso WineDuett 12 thermoelectric unit belongs to a climatic class SN, which allows you to install it in rooms where the temperature varies from 10 to 31 ° C.

Place # 4 - Dunavox DAT-6.16C

To this miniature device there is a place even in the smallest apartment - in a niche or on a countertop. Made in a noble black color, it impresses with its stylish design: the glass facade is enclosed in a plastic frame with a convenient handle.

The principle of operation is based on the Peltier board: a fan is provided for uniform distribution of air throughout the compartment.

For management, a small display, which allows you to control the work and set the settings. Inside the compartment are slightly curved chrome shelves, where you can put both standard Bordeaux bottles and large champagne containers.

Place # 5 - Cold Vine C16-TBF1

Single chamber compact minibar made of ferrous metal. Designed for cooling and storage of wine bottles in the amount of 16 pieces. The total volume of the wine refrigerator is 46 l, and its dimensions in width / depth / height are 43 × 51 × 50 cm. The model weighs only 15 kg.

Miniature wine fridge equipped electronic control, there is a panel with indicators of operating parameters. Inside the working chamber, the temperature background is maintained at a uniform level.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Video presentation of models of household wine refrigerators and their placement in kitchens and dining rooms:

Specialized wine cabinets can be a great addition to a typical set of household appliances. Such devices, combining functionality with a spectacular appearance, are a real decoration of the interior.

Depending on their size, they can be used as a bar, to demonstrate collections or to place bulk batches of bottles.

Looking for a refrigerator for storing wine? Or have experience using such a technique? Tell our readers about the specifics of the selection, operation and maintenance of such units. Share your personal experiences, participate in discussions and ask questions - the comment form is located below.